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As a former NCAA D1 college soccer player with an athletic body type, I’m no stranger to the frustrations of dress shopping. You want a silhouette that flatters your waist without making you look ‘straight up and down’ yet complements broader shoulders.
Luckily, I have a solid idea of what looks good for fall-to-winter dressing, and I’m prepared to share my knowledge with the masses. Below, you’ll find 17 frocks for athletic figures that seamlessly transition from season to season, including A-line numbers, off-the-shoulder picks and structured minis, starting at $27. And in case you’re wondering — and I’m obsessed with all of them.
17 Transitional Dresses That Flatter Athletic Body Types
1. Off-the-Shoulder Stunner: Instantly balance broader shoulders while giving your neckline a romantic feel with this off-the-shoulder sweater dress.
2. Ruffles and Layers: The fluttery ruffles on this curve-creating dress add movement through the hips, giving athletic frames an hourglass frame without any effort.
3. Sophisticated Shirt Dress: A tailored shirt dress is always a win. This on-sale option cinches at the waist with a fabric tie and flows over the hips in a flattering way.
4. Denim Darling: Structured denim gives amazing shape, and this A-line dress defines your waist while adding volume to your lower half.
5. Striped and Sporty: The striped pattern on this rugby-style dress subtly elongates while the polo neckline draws the eye upward. It’s perfect with sneakers and oversized sunnies.
6. Contrasting Trim: This V-neck sweater dress creates length through the torso yet softens the shoulders. Pair yours with a white button-down shirt peaking through.
7. Ribbed Swing Knit: The ribbed texture of this polished dress adds curves, and the swingy hem brings movement. It’s a no-brainer for transitional weather (and looks cute with a long sleeve layered under it).
8. Velvet Darling: Exude glamour with this playful, velvety dress. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving dinner or holiday parties with friends, especially with the precious bow on the front.
9. Has Pockets: A square neckline on this mini dress highlights your collarbone (a huge win!), and the A-line skirt balances your frame effortlessly.
10. Artsy Maxi: Stripes, like the ones on this Donna Morgan maxi, are super lengthening, and the body-skimming fit makes everything sleek.
11. Yeehaw Outlaw: This long-sleeve mumu dress looks dynamite with a fluffy coat and tall black boots. Plus, the thick belt emphasizes your waist.
12. Simple Sateen: Create natural curves with the help of this tiered shirt dress, which looks structured but feels comfortable.
13. Lacey Sweetheart: Shape the body with this flattering A-line dress that has a stunning sweetheart neckline for a romantic appearance.
14. Trendy Turtleneck: A ribbed turtleneck dress is a winter essential. And this knit option from Splendid elongates the body, and pairs well with a blazer and boots.
15. Floral Bodycon: Stretchy and curve-enhancing? Sign me up! This floral maxi gives shape in all the right places while also being super comfy.
16. Cable Knit Cutie: Add depth and dimension to your wardrobe with this cable knit sweater dress that skims over the torso, while showing off your strong legs.
17. Structured Mini: This suit-esque mini dress looks downright architectural on athletic frames. I would know — I own it. And right now, it’s up to 55% off on Amazon.
